Hotel Scotland Issue 53 2024

HOTEL SCOTLAND

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WELCOME

This month I caught up with Dee Bruce who heads up the AC Marriot in Inverness. What a great career she has had and best of all her passion for the industry just shines through. Read what she has to say on page 18.

It has been a very busy month on the news front, so we have extended our news coverage this issue - there is certainly plenty happening in hospitality.

There is also plenty going on when it comes to new hotels opening and refurbishments. Brig o’Doon has a fantastic new garden extension and a new honeymoon suite, while The Rutland Hotel in Edinburgh has been given a refresh, and of course the much-anticipated House of Gods in Glasgow opened. See our design pages for all the pics.

Our sister magazine DRAM Scotland is on the lookout for Scotland’s Best Hotel Bar - sponsored by Molinari Extra. Remember, you need to be in it to win it, so head over to www. scottishbarandpubawards.com to vote.

Until next month.

Susan Young Editor

Cover Pic: JT Lenscraft.

Editor: Susan Young

Advertising: Anne Campbell

Admin: Lesley Smith

Digital: Nicola Young

Editorial: Penny Devlin

susan@mediaworldltd.com

@hotel_scotland

hotelmagazinescotland.co.uk

MOXY LAUNCHES ROOFTOP BAR

Moxy Hotel in Edinburgh has launched Lochrin - a new rooftop bar on the top floor of the Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge in Freer Gait.

The bars name gives a nod to the industrial heritage of Edinburgh’s Fountainbridge area and is named after the gin distillery built by James Haig in 1780. He was one of the key players in Edinburgh’s early gin scene and founded the first purpose-built gin distillery in Scotland called Lochrin, a stone’s throw from the new bar.

Described as a “lavish, moody and opulent cocktail bar” the dark green and red hues provide a reminder of a speakeasy gentleman’s club while the terrace has views across the skyline of Edinburgh and towards the castle.

Wayne Androliakos, Regional Director

of Operations for Moxy hotel operator, Hotel Co 51, said, “We’ve invested heavily into creating something very different for Edinburgh. Once you step out of the lift and onto the 6thfloor, guests will be transported to an eclectic bar, where guests can imbibe in their choice of drinks whilst soaking in the incredible views across the city. With summer on the horizon, now is the perfect time to launch it.”

Along with built-in cinema screens that run black and white movies and iconic Scottish films on movie nights, Lochrin will be offering a selection of small foodie tapas style plates and meat or cheese sharing boards with a collection of rare and aged Scotch whiskies, local gins, craft beers, wines and champagnes along with its cocktail list. It will also be running live events promoting local talent.”

Edinburgh

tops for UK hotel investment as Inverness climbs to third place

Colliers have released their annual UK Hotels Market Index that analyses ten key performance indicators of 38 cities, naming Edinburgh as the top location for hotel investment in the UK with Inverness climbing to third place.

Colliers said, “Edinburgh has maintained its position at the top of our index, predominantly due to its strong performance in both occupancy and ADR during 2023, as well as its impressive RevPAR growth since 2019, making it a highly sought-after market for investment.”

On Inverness, which entered the top ten last year, Colliers said, “Inverness has continued its ascent up the ranks, now firmly established in third place. This growth is supported by the increasingly strong appeal of Scottish destinations to visitors leading to solid performance metrics, together with a limited pipeline under construction and favourable build and land costs.”

The Seafield Arms Hotel in Cullen has been awarded two coveted AA ratings.

Head Chef Luke Green and the kitchen team were award a AA rosette for excellence for their food while a four star rating has been awarded for overall hotel experience.

Head chef Luke Green, who has been with the hotel since it reopened in 2019, explained that the team had to deliver the best of the seasonal produce and that achieving an AA rosette was a huge moment.

JAMES THOMSON

DAKOTA NAMED ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO WORK

Dakota Hotels has been named one of the ‘Best Places to Work’ by The Sunday Times.

The boutique luxury hotel group was recognised within the Top 10 ‘Big’ organisations category for 2024. They also picked up the ‘Best Places to Work for LGBTQIA+ Employees’.

To feature in the list, workplaces are ranked on various criteria such as employee satisfaction, workplace culture, benefits, opportunities for growth, and overall employee experience.

Katie Forrest, Head of Engagement, Learning and Development said, “Dakota Hotels is more than just a place of employment; it’s a family, a community, and a home away from home for our guests and team members alike.”

She continued, “We are deeply honoured to be listed as a Best Place to Work. We firmly believe that our unwavering commitment to our employees sets us apart as a truly exceptional organisation in the hospitality industry.”

In their listing, The Sunday Times wrote of Dakota, “This boutique hotel group offers topquality service to customers and top-quality career prospects to its 585 staff. “

Many of the team have been with Dakota since it was established in 2005, with a number of the senior team working their way up through the ranks..

TRUST GETS FUNDING TO BUY TAVERSOE HOTEL

A pub, hotel, and restaurant development on the Isle of Rousay has gained financial backing of over £250,000.

Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre Development Trust has been awarded £267,948 from the Scottish Land Fund which will allow the trust to purchase the Taversoe Hotel, which it plans to operate as a hotel, pub, restaurant and community space.

The hotel will also serve as a year-round gathering place for the community, helping to combat rural isolation.

The trust will use a second award of £262,188 to purchase a manse in Rousay from the Church of Scotland. This is to be converted into three separate housing units that will be available for affordable rent..

Scotland’s first Vegan hotel goes on the market

Saorsa 1875, in Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire, has been put up for sale as the current owners look to “pursue overseas business interests,” according to agents Graham and Sibbald.

Soarsa was the UK’s first fully plant-based hotel and restaurant.

The hotel has 11 boutique-style bedrooms as well as a lounge bar, snug/private dining room, restaurant and Yurt.

It is on the market at offers in the region of £950,000..

JAMES THOMSON RECOGNISED AS MASTER INNHOLDER

One of Scotland’s best-known independent restaurateurs and hoteliers, James Thomson OBE, who owns Prestonfield House and The Witchery, within his portfolio, is one of only 10 people to have been recognised with a Master Innholder award. The award, created by the Worshipful Company of Innholders, is given to those that have demonstrated themselves as influential and inspirational leaders within the hotel industry.

Dan Rose-Bristow FIH MI, chairman of the Master Innholders, said, “To become a Master Innholder, you need to demonstrate great leadership qualities, your reasons for wanting to become a Master Innholder, what you stand for as a hotelier, your involvement in the wider hospitality community in terms of education and charity, and an appreciation of the heritage and traditions of the Worshipful Company of Innholders, who award the honour. Our 10 successful applicants this year all demonstrated their passion and drive for our profession and were all committed to becoming an active part of our community.

“I am extremely proud to welcome all these inspiring individuals to our family, who will become Master Innholders when they receive their award from the Worshipful Company of Innholders in June.”

James has been a significant player within the Scottish hospitality scene and a great inspiration within the industry since he opened The Witchery aged 20.

James was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Edinburgh in 2018 and has been accredited with regenerating Edinburgh’s Old Town into a vibrant tourist destination, and in 2005, he was awarded an OBE for his services to Scottish Hospitality and Tourism.

As a member of the Prince’s Trust Scottish Advisory Board, James created the annual ‘Lunch with an Old Bag’ event in aid of the charity which has raised over £7 million since its launch in 2009 and has helped change the lives of over 7,000 young people in Scotland. James is also a Founding Patron of Springboard UK which helps disadvantaged and unemployed people of all ages and backgrounds to pursue a career in hospitality.

Solley Hotels sell Kings Manor Hotel

Edinburgh (Portobello) Hotel Limited has purchased the Kings Manor Hotel in an off-market deal. The 100-bedroom hotel near Portobello beach in East Lothian was sold by Scottish group Solley Hotels who had owned the former Manor House property since 1976.

The three-star hotel, which was managed under the Best Western brand, boasts a 100-cover restaurant and 85-seat bistro as well as a leisure club and spa, with four treatment rooms and 20m swimming pool. There is also a tennis court within the grounds.

Sonia Patel from Edinburgh (Portobello) Hotel Limited said, “We’re pleased to have taken ownership of the Kings Manor Hotel. It’s a great hotel which is clearly already very popular with tourists and locals. We look forward to welcoming guests to the hotel who want to be able to access Edinburgh’s hustle and bustle as well as take in the beautiful scenery of the coast, with all the comforts and customer service of a quality hotel.”

Julian Troup Head of Hotels Agency at Colliers handled the sale. He said, “We’re pleased to have handled another confidential sale for a high profile asset in Scotland. It follows on from last year’s success with the disposal of the seven assets as part of the Crerar Hotels Group as well as the Carnoustie Hotel.

“There was considerable interest in the Kings Manor Hotel which resulted in a competitive bidding process from local, national and international hotel operators. This highlights that there’s still robust demand from investors wanting to secure UK regional hotels particularly in popular tourist cities and destinations.””

1802 Lounge & Grill debuts at Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh

St Andrew Square Malmaison changes hands

Malmaison in Edinburgh city centre has a new owner. Fund manager Patrizia has invested £25m on behalf of one of its UK institutional clients.

The fund manager said the hotel offered an “attractive inflation-linked long income profile”

The 72-bed boutique hotel located on St Andrew’s Square comes with a 30-year lease. Phil Irons, head of transactions for UK and Ireland, at Patrizia, said:, “We are pleased to have acquired this exceptional asset in an offmarket deal to further our client’s strategy to diversify into alternative sectors like hospitality. Edinburgh’s world-renowned reputation for culture, sport and business make it one of Europe’s strongest hotel markets, which is being further driven by the post-pandemic recovery in international tourism.

“While the transactions market remains muted, the current conditions continue to present attractive opportunities for us to acquire re-priced core assets that benefit from strong fundamentals.”

Duncan White, director of fund management at Patrizia, said: “We are really pleased to have found another strong repriced core investment opportunity for one of our UK institutional clients. The Malmaison hotel is an evergreen property supported by strong occupational market fundamentals. We hope to acquire similar attractive repriced core opportunities throughout the remainder of 2024 and beyond”

Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh, managed by global hotel management company, Valor Hospitality, has launched its new restaurant and bar concept, 1802 Lounge & Grill.

Named after the year the hotel was first built, the ground floor has had a refresh and takes its inspiration from the prohibition era, with a speakeasy feel, and a blue and gold art deco style. An outdoor space opens later this month.

With the menu promising fresh produce from haggis bon bons to Scottish seafood linguine, Scottish culture is front and centre and the kitchen team have worked closely with Scottish suppliers – from familyowned Campbells hand-cut meat to Welch Fishmongers, who specialise in sustainably sourced fish from the North Sea and Scotland’s

many rivers and lochs.

Ronald Little, General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh said, “We’re delighted to announce our brand-new restaurant, 1802 Lounge & Grill. Our team look forward to welcoming guests, locals, theatre goers and visitors alike, to sample some of our locally sourced Scottish produce.”

Brian McCarthy, President of Valor Hospitality UK & Europe said, “We are so passionate about making our hotel restaurants feel like a destination in their own right, and we really believe the 1802 Lounge & Grill will be just that.

The team have worked tirelessly to put together a menu that supports the local supply chain and is packed with locally sourced, quality ingredients. It’s all part of our commitment to going above and beyond for our guests and integrating with our local communities.”

MACDONALD

HOTELS FUNDS

15,000 SCHOOL MEALS

Independent hospitality group, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, has funded 15,000 school meals for children in countries including Kenya as part of an innovative new partnership with direct trade coffee producers Paddy & Scott’s.

The Lunch Box programme by Paddy & Scott’s, which has now been fully rolled out across Macdonald Hotels & Resorts venues, is a pioneering project designed to fund meals for children living in coffee-growing regions around the world.

As part of the partnership, Lunch Box coffee is served in all of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts’ 32 properties throughout the UK, with guests able to support this charitable effort by enjoying breakfast, afternoon tea or a light refreshment in the hotel of their choice. Each bag of coffee funds a meal for a child in Kenya

as part of The Muchomba Project, and other coffee-growing regions around the world.

A joint venture between a Kenyan coffee farm and Ipswich-based Paddy & Scott’s, The Muchomba Project helps fund life-changing initiatives in the Kenyan farming community. The project is currently financing improvement works at the local school, ranging from installation of windows and toilets, to running clean drinking water.

Michael Savage, Head of Energy & Sustainability at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, said,

“Paddy & Scott’s work to support communities aligns seamlessly with our values, and we’re proud to now stock Lunch Box coffee in all our properties throughout the UK. By doing this, we can make a real difference and change young people’s lives in the locations where our coffee is sourced.

GLENFINNAN TRANSFORMED AND BBQ ADDED

Glenfinnan House Hotel has been transformed with a new look and offering, including a new rural space and BBQ area. The hotel’s fourteen bedrooms have also been modernised, while a new concept bar and restaurant has opened to the public. The hotel, located on the shores of Loch Shiel, is owned by Jane MacFarlane but is now being managed by ICMI, who have been working in partnership with the MacFarlane family.

Jane MacFarlane, said, “We are absolutely delighted to begin re-welcoming guests from around the world to our newly refurbished establishment. It is an exciting moment in our history that comes at a time where tourist numbers in the Scottish Highlands continue to soar. Renowned both locally and internationally

for its rich history and breathtaking views, daytrippers as well as hotel guests are welcome to explore our newly refurbished Glenfinnan House Hotel and rural space.”

While Norbert Lieder, managing director at ICMI, added, “It is fantastic to see Glenfinnan House Hotel open again to guests following the completion of the extensive refurbishment. I know tourists and hotel guests alike will be impressed by the product of a year’s dedicated renovation work and sympathetic interior design. As ICMI enters the next chapter of Glenfinnan House Hotel’s history, we are looking forward to continuing exceeding guest expectations with our high standards and excellent customer service.”

Tom Tsappis shortlisted in Craft Guild of Chefs awards

Tom Tsappis, head chef and co-owner of Killiecrankie House, is one of three shortlisted in the Restaurant Chef category in the Craft Guild of Chefs awards 2024. The other nominees are George Blogg, Executive Head Chef, Gravetye Manor Hotel & Restaurant, Sussex and Daniel Rogan, Chef Owner, AO by Daniel Rogan, Southampton.

Tom said, ”I’m, over the moon to be a shortlisted nominee in the Craft Guild of Chef Awards 2024. As a chef you have to be passionate about what you do, and awards like this play a significant part in shaping you as a chef, helping you to develop and evolve, by benchmarking you alongside your industry peers. However, the reality is that you are only as good as the members of the team you work alongside day in and day out – so being shortlisted also recognises their efforts too because without their input none of what we do would be possible.”

As part of the awards process Tom and his fellow chefs are assessed against a series of criteria, including their use of local produce, how they support local farmers and producers and the wider community in which they operate, as well as their culinary creativity, team management, the way they develop their team and how they have made a contribution to the industry as a whole.

Matt Owens, chair of the Craft Guild of Chefs, said, “I wish each and every one of you the best of luck on the night. It is such an honour to be recognised by your peers to get you this far and it’s why The Craft Guild of Chefs are proud to showcase some of the great talent we have in our industry.” The winners will be announced this month.

Apex Hotels has announced its new charity is Hospitality Action. Hospitality Action p.rovides 24/7 advice and support for hospitality professionals, ensuring they can access help whenever they need it. From their telephone helpline to their advice hub covering various topics like mental health, finances, and relationships, they provide the best support to those who need it most.

Michael Musgrave, Head of Charity Committee at Apex Hotels says, “Hospitality Action really aligns with our values here at Apex Hotels. We’ve always done our bit to raise funds for charity and the fact that Hospitality Action gives back to people who work in the industry is important to our teams. We’re excited to be able to support them while they are essentially supporting us as hospitality workers.”

Mark Lewis, Chief Executive, Hospitality Action says, “We are honoured to be nominated as charity of the year by Apex Hotels. This collaboration signifies more than just a charitable donation, it will spread positivity across our industry and in turn, to all those we assist. We’re excited to work alongside the Apex Charity Committee to make the most out of the coming twelve months and to ensure employee wellbeing and fundraising go together hand in hand”.

Apex Hotels now have 21 Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) as well as seven Mental Health First Aid trainers. The MHFAs have received in-house training and provide support to team members in need equipping them with the skills to recognise signs of crisis and provide initial support, whilst also signposting people to the right level of care and support provided by expert organisations and other healthcare professionals.

COALIN FINN JOINS OLD COURSE AS F&B OPERATION SEES ROOFTOP BAR LAUNCH AND THE JIGGER RE-OPEN

The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa has opened The West Deck on the fourth floor, overlooking the world-famous Old Course and West Sands Beach.

The latest addition to the hotel’s restaurant bar offering has outdoor seating and dining pods designed to accommodate up to 10. With a tapas style menu of light bites and sharing platters and a focus on Scottish produce it will include Great Glen venison charcuterie and crab salad with sorrel sauce.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Coalin Finn has taken over the role of executive head chef at the Old Course, heading up kitchen functions across its eight restaurants and bars, including 3 AA Rosette Awarded Road Hole Restaurant and golf’s most famous pub – the Jigger Inn which has also just re-opened.

Coalin joins the hotel from previous experiences in Michelin starred kitchens and

ST ANDREWS GETS SET TO WELCOME SEATON HOUSE

5-star hotels. While he most recently worked in an Executive Chef role at Claridge’s hotel in London, he has trained under chefs like Daniel Humm and Claude Bosi.

Coalin Finn, Executive Chef at Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa says of his new role, “I am honoured to join the exceptional team at Old Course Hotel and to showcase my contemporary interpretation of Scottish cuisine. With St. Andrews’ rich culinary heritage and access to incredible local produce, I look forward to creating memorable dining experiences across the resort.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Coalin Finn as our new Executive Chef at Old Course Hotel,” says Phyllis Wilkie, General Manager at Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, “his impressive background, innovative approach to cuisine, and commitment to sustainability align perfectly with our vision of offering extraordinary dining experiences.”

Global full-service hotel management company, Valor Hospitality Partners, in partnership with the US-based Links Collection, is set to open two fivestar hotels this year - Seaton House in St Andrews and Dunluce Lodge at Royal Portrush.

Seaton House, previously known as the Scores Hotel, overlooks the Royal & Ancient Clubhouse and is just a one-minute walk to the 18th green of the Old Course .

It will offer forty-two luxury bedrooms, five stunning suites and three junior suites, and guests will be able to choose a sea or garden view, with five rooms benefiting from their own private terrace.

The culinary experience will be headlined by renowned Scottish Chef Roy Brett, of Ondine Oyster & Grill, Edinburgh.

Euan McGlashan, Global Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer, Valor Hospitality Partners, said, “It is an honor to be working on such incredible projects, in such breathtaking locations. Both Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House are designed to be intimately residential in feel with a very distinct sense of place and all the modern conveniences our guests will expect.”

TOBERMORY HOTEL SOLD FOR

£1.2M

TO LOCAL OPERATOR

The Tobermory hotel has been sold for £1.2m to a local operator. The hotel, one of the famous coloured buildings along the island’s Main Street, was sold through Drysdale and Co to James Wright who also owns the Western Isles Hotel and Harbour Guest House through his company Ritecrown Ltd.

The hotel has 14 ensuite rooms, a 24 cover dining room and a Lounge bar with additional dining capacity.

The three hotels will be operated by the same management.

Red Carnation makes its debut in Scotland

Red Carnation Hotels, the Tollman family-owned hotel collection, has opened its first property in Scotland. The new Edinburgh boutique hotel, which carries the name of its address, 100 Princes Street, has been inspired by the adventures of the Scottish explorers who used the building as the former headquarters of the Royal Overseas League and is being led by Resident Manager Laura Jamieson. It features 30 ensuite rooms and suites, as well as ‘The Wallace’, a dining room, bar and lounge, and ‘Ghillie’s Pantry’, a private dining room offering over one hundred whiskies and custom tasting menus.

The design is the result of the team behind Botswana’s Xigera Safari Lodge and Ireland’s Ashford Castle, with the vision of Toni Tollman. It features artworks including bespoke pieces by the decorative arts specialists, Croxford and Saunders while the rooms have custom-made furnishings, fabrics and artworks including five tartans by Scottish designer Araminta Campbell.

Red Carnation Hotels run Ashford Castle in the west of Ireland, the Milestone Hotel & Residences in London Kensington, and The Oyster Box and Xigera Safari Lodge in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana.

COALIN FINN

FERRY ISSUES SPUR ON AUCHRANNIE RESORT TO LAUNCH INITIATIVE ‘BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE’

In response to recent ferry disruptions, Auchrannie Resort has introduced a new ‘BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE’ policy, designed to reassure potential visitors.

The resort will now offer free of charge accommodation to guests affected by homeward travel disruption.

Auchrannie, along with numerous Arran businesses, is facing significant and urgent financial challenges due to a lack of visitor confidence in the ferry service which is severely impacting forward bookings.

The business has resolved to implement measures, which may incur significant costs, to address the decreased demand. This policy aims to mitigate financial concerns for prospective guests affected by ferry disruptions when travelling to the resort from Troon, Ardrossan, and Claonaig.

In a bid to boost forward demand, the customer-focused strategy will include offering guests FREE OF CHARGE accommodation, no fee cancellations and the timely return of any deposits paid should they experience delays or disruption to their journey to or from the island.

Gordon Hay, Auchrannie’s Business Development Manager, commented on the initiative, “Recognising the worries our potential

visitors have about ferries, we’ve shifted from merely acknowledging these problems to actively enhancing our guests’ experience.

Our ‘Book with Confidence’ policy is about turning challenges into opportunities for reassurance and support. We want our guests to feel secure when booking a stay at Auchrannie, confident in the knowledge that we will look after them, no matter the circumstances.”

Linda Johnston, Co-Founder & Executive Chairperson added, “Each year, over 750,000 journeys, are made to and from the Isle of Arran by ferry, with the vast majority encountering no issues. However, occasional weather and technical problems can disrupt travel plans. Understanding the potential worry this causes, Auchrannie Resort has taken these proactive and robust measures to ensure that any undue stressand concern by their guests is minimised.

“This unique policy not only aims to boost bookings during the uncertain winter months but also reinforce Auchrannie Resort’s ongoing commitment to providing an outstanding hospitality experience under all conditions.”

Full term and conditions of the policy can be found at www.auchrannie.co.uk/confidence.

The Leddie gets set to make its debut at Aberlady

The former Ducks Inn in Aberlady in East Lothian will re-open this summer as The Leddie –in honour of the original name of the river that runs through the town.

Bought by Northern Irish private investment company Wirefox, via its Marram hotels business in September 2023, it has undergone an extensive refurbishment and re-design to become a luxury 27 bed hotel, a bar and 70 cover restaurant and lounge with a menu designed to celebrate East Lothian’s local larder.

Wirefox has also announced that Robert Clark has been appointed as General Manager. Robert has previously been General Manager of The Scran &

Scallie in Edinburgh and the Bonnie Badger in Gullane. He said, “I am delighted to have joined Wirefox at the early stages of the Marram collection and cannot wait to launch this beautiful property after all the hard work that has gone into it, from everyone involved. It is an exciting time and we are focussed on providing great hospitality for all of our guests.

“From culinary and events to golf and activities, we have appointed some of the most renowned names within their respective fields to help us deliver our vision for Mar Hall as a world-class destination resort, and we are incredibly excited for guests to experience the new proposition.”

LINDA JOHNSTON

Macdonald Aviemore Resort finalises leadership team

The Macdonald Aviemore Resort has made a number of senior appointments and promotions to its senior management team as Managing director Kenny McMillan, who became MD in December last year, names the team to oversee strategic operations and further growth across all key service lines.

Clare Armstrong rejoins as Sales Director following seven years working for Inverness Chamber of Commerce where she was head of membership. She was previously sales and events manager at Drumossie Hotel for eight years.

Gaelle Delagrave becomes Marketing director – an experienced marketer with over 20 years’ experience in digital media, specialising in customer growth strategies and key account management for leading brands globally.

Finance director, Lynne Hadden, is a chartered certified accountant. Previously finance manager at Springfield Properties of Elgin, where she worked for 20 years, Lynne is passionate about providing quality financial and management reporting.

Edwin Blackhall, who first joined as an apprentice more than 20 years ago, has returned as group executive chef. Ed’s career has been built on celebrating the finest, locallysourced produce. He was previously executive chef at Pittodrie House Hotel in Aberdeenshire and honed his skills in the kitchens of Bath Spa Hotel and Drumossie Hotel, among others.

Food and beverage operations director Jakub Golebiowski has spent the past 17 years in F&B management at Macdonald Aviemore Resort. Since joining as a restaurant assistant manager,

Jakub progressed to F&B operations manager before becoming director of Operations.

Golf director Jonny Chaisty brings over 15 years’ industry experience and has worked in golf management for 10 years. At Spey Valley Golf Course, Jonny’s primary responsibility is to ensure the course operates profitably and to provide a first-class Highland experience for both members and visitors alike.

New Retail director, Caron Black, has been involved in numerous projects at Macdonald Aviemore Resort from both retail and hospitality perspectives, promoting a positive working culture and environment.

Welcoming the new appointments, managing director Kenny McMillan said, “I’m pleased that the senior management team has been finalised and look forward to working with my colleagues to develop and deliver the strategic vision for the business as the resort continues to go from strength to strength.

“The leadership team has certainly added fresh impetus and their combined strengths and talents, complemented by our existing workforce, will be important assets over the coming years. This gives me great confidence as we drive the business forward whilst continuously improving our working practices and service delivery.

“There is tremendous potential to further enhance the positive work we’re doing at the resort, both on-site and across the local community. We continue to benefit from our ability to deliver unforgettable experiences for our business and leisure guests and have experienced an encouraging start to the year in terms of bookings for rooms, conferences and family breaks.”

ENTREPRENEUR BUYS THE ROYAL AN LOCHAN IN TIGHNABRUAICH

Mark Watson, owner of the Advanced Group, which specialise in energy efficient windows /doors and design, has bought the Royal an Lochan Hotel on the Kyles of Bute from the liquidators.

He revealed the news on Linkedin saying, “I have stayed in this building on a few occasions over the last 24 years. Slowly watching it flounder.. He went on to say that he and his family felt that there was an opportunity to make it appeal to everyone.

He said, “Tom Lewis has done it with a motel called Mhor 84 . It popped up and is the go to place near Strathyre.”

He told locals, “This old building has had no money spent on it since it had its extension over 100 years ago . We plan to fully future proof this building. “

The Watson’s plans for the hotel include putting in triple glazing, external wall insulation, floor and roof insulation, re install slate and concealed solar to the rear as well as building a platform and fitting byfold doors to the whole platform bringing the dining experience to the water view and outside . The Shinty Bar will be redesigned as will the bedrooms. They also plans to remove the inside walls that guests to make the most of the hotel’s views.

£2.9m upgrade for Apex City of Edinburgh

Apex City of Edinburgh hotel in Grassmarket is undergoing a £2.9 million refurbishment, as well as increasing its capacity. The project is due for completion in early May. It comes as new research reveals this summer’s Edinburgh Fringe is expected to return to pre-Covid levels, and against the back-drop of an active hotel sector in the city, with Savill’s saying earlier this year that the city is “expected to remain the highest performing hotel market outside of London in 2024.”

Apex are completing a 122 bedroom and corridor refurbishment as well as converting a meeting room space into three new bedrooms to increase capacity to 125 rooms, and all room and corridor lighting are also being upgraded to LED as part of the hotel’s commitment to zero carbon.

The hotel is working with Ian Springford Architects for design consultancy, while CLC Group is the lead contractor overseeing the works.

Ronnie MacKay, Cluster General Manager for Edinburgh said, “We are delighted to be upgrading our rooms and corridors for our customers to enjoy. Apex City of Edinburgh is a popular destination in the heart of Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s old town, boasting some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle and the city.”

Michael Stott, Commercial Director Apex Hotels said, “Apex Hotels continues to grow following a positive financial year, allowing us to re-invest in our properties across the UK. We recognise the popularity of Edinburgh as a destination and the high standards our guests expect. This investment will provide even more capacity at the hotel and ensure our visitors have the very best stay with us.”

Mar Hall unveils refurbished leisure suite and new 4x4 partnership

Mar Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa Resort has unveiled its newly refurbished leisure suite, the first phase of a multimillion-pound development at the Resort.

The new leisure facilities incorporate a state-of-the-art fitness gym, alongside a 20-metre swimming pool with saunas, steam rooms and an outdoor thermal suite.

Joe Gallacher, General Manager at Mar Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa Resort, said: “Our new leisure suite offers our local members best-in-class pool and gym facilities with a daily schedule of classes and personalised training to support their goals, while spa and hotel guests are welcomed to enjoy a tranquil retreat or wellness short break.”

Meanwhile the hotel has also partnered with 4×4 Adventures Scotland to offer guests off-road tours of the 45,000-acre Luss estate between Loch Lomond and Loch Long as it continues the repositioning of the Resort into a luxury five-star Scottish destination.

Joe Gallacher, said of the new partnership,“We’re proud to establish and develop trusted partnerships with Scottish businesses and global brands. It’s fantastic to now be able to offer our guests unforgettable off-road experiences with 4×4 Adventures Scotland.

“These new improvements form part of the ongoing multi-million-pound redevelopment project to elevate and modernise the resort while celebrating Mar Hall’s rich Scottish heritage. We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests as they join us to experience the five-star hospitality across the resort.”

Hybrid hospitality concept sees The Social Hub invests £90m in Glasgow

The Social Hub, the pioneering hybrid hospitality concept from Amsterdam-based The Social Hub, founded by Charlie MacGregor, opened its first hotel in the UK in Glasgow last week..

With an investment of over £90 million and employing more than 80 staff, the new four star property is located in the Merchant City.

The “hybrid hospitality concept” is aimed at business travellers, students and tourists, with its properties offering a mixture of hotel rooms, student accommodation and extended-stay rooms.

Along with a gym, restaurant, and bar – which includes one of the city’s largest rooftop bars – it also features 494 rooms, co-working space with capacity for 222 people on a daily basis, 20 private offices, with meeting and event spaces as well as an auditorium.

The property is also working with local partners, including Scottish sustainable fashion designer Siobhan Mackenzie who has helped the brand launch its own tartan and Sea Change Wine which helps fund global conservation projects. Other suppliers include organic wine brand Vinca Wine, beer company Brewgooder, gin and vodka distillery Arbikie, and B-corp coffee brand Dear Green.

CEO & Founder of The Social Hub, Charlie MacGregor, said, “I am so proud to be launching The Social Hub in the country I grew up in and where I began my professional career, getting hands-on experience and inspiring a business model that evolved into what is now The Social Hub.

“As pioneers in the hybrid hospitality industry, I am excited to be back home and to see the impact our Glasgow Hub will bring to the community through our spaces and experiences, ones that blur the boundaries of traditional hospitality offerings through our relentless ambition to create a better society, together with all those who walk through our doors.”

The Social Hub Glasgow will be the 18th property to open in Europe for the Amsterdam-based company, with other locations currently operating in Austria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. Five additional properties are currently in development, with Porto and Florence Belfiore opening this year, followed by Rome in 2025 and Lisbon and Turin in later years.

Links House introduces farm tours to promote sustainable tourism

Links House at Royal Dornoch, has strengthened its commitment to sustainable tourism with the introduction of private tours focused on their kitchen garden and neighbouring Seaview Farm.

From the end of June head gardener Skye Buchanan, will give guests a brief history of the Links House gardens, complete with the planting ethos which inspired them, as well as the key growing processes needed so far north. There will also be the chance for those taking part to tour the kitchen garden at Links House, where many of the herbs used in the hotel’s 2AA Rosette restaurant MARA are grown and enjoy the chance to help handpick the crop for the evening’s dinner service.

Once the hotel garden tour is completed, the experience will continue at the nearby Seaview Farm – a 110-acre working farm located nearby, with

sweeping views over the 7th & 8th holes of the iconic Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Here, guests will be shown through the walled Scottish formal garden, large wildflower meadow, upland heath and heather moor, with attention paid to the strawberry, blueberry and raspberry cages, finishing in the established lavender fields with adjacent honey bee apiary yard, Scottish apple orchard, and heritage barley fields.

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a handson take at harvesting and processing the lavender plants. Upon completion, guests will receive a gift pack of lavender goodies to enjoy along with a sample jar of Seaview honey as a delicious memento of their time in the gardens.

Speaking about the introduction of new tours, Managing Director Phil Scott has said, ‘These tours are a celebration of the work that the Links House team has undertaken in creating a luxury destination which promotes authentic and sustainable tourism practices..”

THE AVLA LICENCEA LEGAL REQUIREMENT

When travellers arrive at a hotel, they expect a certain level of comfort and entertainment.

Television is an indispensable asset. While some may argue that TV is dying in the age of streaming and on-demand content, in reality it remains essential, especially in the UK. British films and television programmes are renowned the world over for quality, innovation and artistry. Television still holds great value for the hospitality industry. Television in hotels is crucial for providing entertainment options and for enhancing the overall guest experience. TV allows travellers to unwind and relax after a long day exploring a new city or attending meetings, contributing to a more pleasant and memorable stay. Parents can enjoy their break relying on safe programming for kids.

While on-demand consumption may be on the rise, the value of traditional TV in hotels remains central in providing an entertaining and enjoyable guest experience. Furthermore, not all visitors may have access to streaming services (especially if they are abroad) or may prefer the convenience of flipping through British channels.

In addition, television can also serve as a valuable marketing tool. By offering a diverse selection of channels, hoteliers can cater to a wide range of guests and attract more visitors, differentiating themselves from competitors. For instance, foreign travellers may appreciate watching networks in their language. Television also helps hoteliers build brand loyalty and positive reputation. Guests are more likely to return to a hotel that provides a high-quality entertainment experience, as well as recommend it.

However, with the convenience and benefits of offering television come certain responsibilities, particularly respecting copyright laws. Hoteliers must ensure they have the necessary licences to broadcast content legally.

The AVLA licence enables hotels, aparthotels, B&Bs and similar establishments to legally display in public TV channels containing audiovisual works (films, series, documentaries, cartoons and other TV shows) from AVLA’s extensive repertoire. It covers TVs in bedrooms and in communal areas of the premises (e.g. in a hotel’s restaurant, bar, etc.). Operating without a licence constitutes a legal infringement of the rights of AVLA’s creatives.

AVLA represents the UK largest and most varied community of audiovisual creators, comprising various categories of rightsholders: producers, authors, performers, directors, and visual artists. Consequently, the AVLA licence covers an immense catalogue of works and rights, not covered by other licensors.

When it comes to clearing rights, most hoteliers struggle to navigate through the sometimes complex world of copyright. The AVLA licence helps them to comply with legal requirements. AVLA’s simple and centralised licensing solution, relieves hoteliers of the burden of dealing with too many parties and provides legal certainty.

For clarity, the AVLA licence does not replace licences issued by other organisations, and vice versa. Even if establishments have obtained authorizations from other licensors, they will still need the AVLA licence to cover the works in AVLA’s catalogue.

By taking the AVLA licence, hospitality accommodation businesses are directly helping to maintain a vibrant audiovisual sector, in the UK and beyond. The royalties collected serve to finance new content, as well as to sustain tens of thousands of workers and companies involved in the process.

Almost all of the licence fees collected by AVLA are passed on to the creatives it represents. For example, for a film, the royalties will go to the production company that financed it, the writers who developed the script, the actors, the director, and the people who designed the logo and posters.

Respecting copyright law is crucial not only to avoid legal or reputational risks, but also to support the UK’s world-class creative industries. So, by taking an AVLA licence, hotels are securing legal compliance and demonstrating their commitment to ethical business practices, while also helping to sustain and support the creative individuals and businesses working hard to produce the TV and film content that is so valued by their customers.

To learn more about AVLA and to get the licence, visit www.avla.uk

AVLA offers a special 10% discount for businesses that take the licence by 30 June.

EVENT THE HIT GOLF DAY TURNBERRY

The trade gathered in force to enjoy the HIT Golf Day at Turnberry. It might have been a bit windy but it was great day.

Apex wins Sustainable Business Award

Apex Hotels has won the Sustainable Business Award at the recent Springboard Awards in London after demonstrating “a long term, companywide commitment to sustainable practices and policies which shone above the rest.” The hotel group was up against The Hilton, Leonardo Hotels, Sodexo and Wilson Vale who were also on the shortlist.

Apex said that the group has put in place “a comprehensive Carbon Plan designed to propel the organisation to NetZero and has committed over £1 million to reducing carbon emissions. The initiative has already yielded some impressive results including recycling 60% of all waste with zero landfill, cutting over 600,000 plastic and glass bottles from waste through a new partnership with Belu Water and changing all room amenities to refillable Antipodes crafted from reused ocean-bound materials, which are fully recyclable.”

The hotel group has also reduced waste by introducing a new Paperless Check-in and Invoicing system, as well as a new guest App to improve efficiency.

A new Building Management System (BMS) has also yielded a 15% reduction in electricity consumption at Apex Waterloo Place in Edinburgh, with plans to roll out BMS across all its London properties.

SUPER CHARGING AT RAD GROUP

The Rad Hotel Group, with nine hotels across Scotland including the Seamill Hydro Hotel and Dalmeny Park Hotel, have installed a TESLA Supercharge Charging Hub at their Radstone Hotel in Larkhall, and, with 16 charging points, which is possibly the largest Supercharge Charging Hub in Scotland.

The charging points support all CCS compatible vehicles (which means the car doesn’t need to be a TESLA car to charge there), and are available with fast charging capabilities. The group say that the charging facilities “offer an effective and convenient charging source for both guests of the hotel and visitors.”

Co-owner Robert Kyle said, “At the Radstone Hotel, we believe in taking proactive steps in minimising our environmental impact as well as catering for our guest’s every need. The introduction of our Electronic Supercharge Charging points aligns perfectly with our commitments as a hotel group to providing more sustainable solutions for visitors and reducing our impact as a whole.”

The RAD Hotel Group have been embracing sustainable practices including the installation of Biomass boilers, the introduction of solar panels, partnerships with accredited waste management companies and use locally sourced produce.

SIMPSINNS ENCOURAGES SUSTAINABLE

Dakota Hotels announces latest sustainability initiative

The Dakota Hotel group have opted in to a Carbon Balancing Printing Scheme in partnership with print and stationary partners Kenway, the company’s primary print supplier.

The latest in the hotel’s sustainability initiatives, carbon balanced printing reduces the carbon impacts of paper and printed communications – such as menus, welcome cards, and bedroom directories – lessening the subsequent carbon footprint and impacts on climate change. Carbon balanced printing calculates the carbon footprint of each job, optimising the process where possible, and offsets the remaining unavoidable emissions.

The World Land Trust – an international conservation charity protecting the world’s most biologically significant and at-risk habitats – will then purchase the equivalent in land, protecting and restoring threatened tropical habitats across the globe.

Between 1st January 2024 and 31st March 2024, Dakota Hotels have offset the equivalent of 675kg of CO2 – enabling World Land Trust to protect 130M2 of habitat across Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico and Vietnam.

The carbon balancing scheme adds another string to Dakota Hotels’ sustainability bow.

Dakota Eurocentral was presented with a Gold Award by Green Tourism in 2023 – an accolade recognising sustainable achievements of businesses within the tourism industry.

The Dakota group have spearheaded several sustainable initiatives in the last few years, including the installation of solar panels and unveiling of electric charging points across multiple locations.

TRAVEL WITH NEW CYCLING BREAKS

The Gailes Hotel, owned by Simpsinns, has launched new cycling breaks and a cycle hire service for its guests with a choice of recommended routes to help visitors get active and explore the Ayrshire coast and countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts can now saddle up with hybrid bikes for casual rides or exploring the nearby cycle routes. Electric bikes also allow visitors to take their two-wheel adventure to the next level with effortless pedalling. Cycle safety helmets are also included with the bike hire at The Gailes.

Janette Mitchell is Travel Smart Ambassador for SimpsInns at The Gailes. She said, “We’re really excited to be offering our visitors a new way to create their own two-wheel adventure on the North Ayrshire coast in 2024. Located just 40 minutes from Glasgow, the region is easily accessible by public transport and offers fantastic coastal and countryside scenery, all within easy reach of The Gailes in Irvine. People can now get active and enjoy a range of cycle routes that will allow them to get off the beaten track and discover what the North Ayrshire coast has to offer. Cyclists are also able to plan their own routes in manageable sections and explore the North Ayrshire coast and countryside at their own pace.”

Janette added, “As part of our new cycle hire facility and cycling breaks in 2024, we’re delighted to be working with North Ayrshire Council to encourage our visitors to think about more sustainable and eco-friendly ways to travel.”

SIMPLY THE BEST

DIANNA BRUCE is leading her best life as General Manager of the AC Hotel by Marriott in Inverness. SUSAN YOUNG caught up with her to find out why she loves her role.

Dianna Bruce, known as Dee, tells me that unlike many of her industry colleagues she never had any real ambition to be a General Manager. Despite that she has mastered the art and is currently presiding over the AC Hotel by Marriott Inverness – managed by Hotel Co 51, which was the first in Scotland for the brand.

The hotel, the largest in Inverness with 191 bedrooms, sits on the Banks of the River Ness and has proved a very popular addition to the city. In fact it is only now with 16 months under her belt that Dee is finding the time to catch her breath. She admits, “The hotel has been busier than we ever imagined.”

Dee, who hails from Dundee, started her industrious career at the Drumoig Hotel just outside Leuchars more than 20 years ago. Her

first role was on reception. Since then she has worked her way up through hospitality and with various hotel companies including the likes of Ramada Jarvis, RBH, Swallow Hotels, Cycas Hospitality, DeVere and Marriott Hotels.

But it was advice she received while in her teens that she believes has stood her in good stead. She tells me, “A long time ago I remember someone saying to me ‘do the job you want, not the job you are paid for’. That has always stuck with me. I have always tried to do the next part of the job before I had it which perhaps is unusual these days, because so many youngsters want the job first before they have learned the ropes – for me it was the other way around.

“For instance, when I was working in reception, I wanted to know how to do the

next part of the job. I was (and am) naturally curious and I want to know the nitty gritty of how and why? That led me into being Reception Supervisor but when I got that role I already knew how to do it because I had been doing it.”

From the Drumoig she headed to the bright lights of London and says, “At the time I was 19 or 20 and there was a buzz about London. However, it was more about my CV than everything else, and I did miss home. My partner, at the time, was from the North of England and we compromised and moved nearer his family in Bolton where my next role was as Reception Manager at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel.”

Four years later in 2005, just before she had her son, Dee moved back to Dundee and went for a part-time reservations role with what was then the Swallow Hotel. She laughs, “Somehow when I came out of the interview I was Guest Relations Manager which included the Front Office Manager and Finance Manager roles rolled into one. I am not sure how I was talked into that.”

She moved up through the ranks becoming Rooms Division Manager and then Operations Manager in 2012 and helped transition the hotel to a Landmark Hotel with RBH and General Manager Marcello Ventesei, who I interviewed in the last magazine.

Marcello is one of the people that Dee views as a mentor. She says, “I did the rebrand of the Swallow into Landmark with Marcello. His attention to detail was just amazing.

“For instance, when I was Front Office Manager we used to have an apple bowl on reception and I remember Marcello saying to me one day ‘That apple bowl is not full’, and I said I’ve just checked out 100 or so guests. His response was, “The 100 checkouts don’t know you have just done a 100 checkouts.” He was right and that installed in me how important first impressions are. He taught me how to spot things that you walk past 300 times a day.”

Another person who made a big impression on Dee was Niki Fincham the HR director for RBH, the group which managed the Landmark in Dundee. Niki is still with the company as Group Learning & Development Manager. Dee explains, “I went on a course and was given a jigsaw which required 16 pieces to complete it. The pieces were rooms, revenue, front office and so on. As you completed the course you had to get your work signed off from the relevant departments and when it was you got another piece of the jigsaw. When you got all the pieces you were put on a fast track to be General Manager. Niki played a big part in that and even bought me a couple of books. She took a personal interest and was a huge part of my development.”

She continues, “I have mostly learned on the job, but I was also fortunate enough to do a HIT Scotland Scholarship Leadership course

at Lausanne when I moved from my Front office to my first Operations role. The aim was to learn the difference from looking after one department to looking after multiple departments and going from manager to leader. I also did some SVQs along the way, but predominantly I learned from the people I worked with.”

Although Dee definitely enjoyed her Operations role at Landmark, she found that with a young son she couldn’t quite manage the hours. She then took a role as Reservations and Events Manager at the Old Course at St Andrews where she stayed two years. But she found it wasn’t for her. “It was quite different. The operation is so big that you do get a bit lost in the organisation and I was taking every booking from a spa booking to a dinner for 300. For me, it was too officebased. I wasn’t designed for a 9am to 5pm office role, as much as it suited me at the time. I ended up moving across to Hotel du Vin where I was Sales and Events manager, but I also slipped into operations when we were doing things like weddings and I even stepped in as toastmaster.”

Therefore, when an opportunity in Operations came up to do the pre-opening for Cycas at Dundee’s Staybridge Suites and Hotel Indigo in 2018 Dee jumped at the opportunity.

“I thought who am I kidding? I have been doing ops, even if it wasn’t on paper. The hours and the workload was still operations and my son was older so I thought I could do the role.

“I have actually done most things in hotels in different ways, but I haven’t done a preopening. The experience opened up a whole different world. The skillset was so different. I was sitting in on site meetings learning about, for example, how an air conditioning unit worked. I was the person who asked how the plant room worked and so on.”

Bill Burnett, another past interviewee, was at the time GM of Hotel Indigo and was also Regional GM for Cycas. Dee credits him with helping her in her career there.

Says Dee, “Cycas were a huge part of my development. I went in as Rooms Manager for Indigo, then opened Staybridge Suites next door, and then they asked me to take that on as Hotel Manager. Bill, as Regional GM, looked after the whole of the North, so Dundee really became mine. And as Bill moved up the company and they changed structure I ended up as Hotel Manager for both hotels. Bill trusted me to look after the team and develop it and that gave me a lot of confidence.”

The two also moved into the hotel with another colleague during Covid and the trio spent 16 weeks looking after their guests and living in the hotel.

The company then sent Dee to London for a few months to shadow a General

Manager in order that she could make the step up from Manager to General Manager. Coincidentally a few months later that Manager resigned and Dee was asked to cover the hotel in London. Says Dee, “It was great because I knew the hotel, knew how it operated and I knew the GM, so he did a handover with me. I also enjoyed being back in London and the buzz. They then gave me a job at a Marriott in Manchester. It was great experience and I really owe Cycas a lot. They were great to work for.”

It wasn’t long before a former colleague of Dee’s called her to ask if she knew someone who could open the new AC Marriott in Inverness. She smiles, “At first they asked me if I knew anyone, and then I realised they were asking me if I would do it. That opportunity also came through Cycas because it was the former COO, Wayne Androliakos, who had moved to Hotel Co 51 as Regional Director of Operations that approached me.

The rest as they say is history. Dee smiles, “I came up to see it and fell in love with it.”

One of the things that she loves best about the role in Inverness is the opportunity to merge the General Manager and operational functions. She explains, “With operations you are very much involved on the floor and watching what is actually happening. You have to make sure all the cogs are in place whether it’s a VIP arrival or a birthday. This gives you the direct contact with the guests which I really enjoy. The GM role is more strategic and is more about planning what you are going to do in six months time. There is also more of a focus on the financial and commercial side of the business. I am quite fortunate in this hotel because I am still quite involved with the operational side - of course it helps that I come to work with a puppy, a seven month Dachshund Toy Poodle called Richmond. I get to walk the buildings and guests want to stop and talk to him. They will even stop at the office door and ask to take him for a walk. So, I still have that connection with guests – I don’t think I could be GM if I didn’t have that part of it. For instance, we had a guest a few weeks ago who was a 100-yearold ex-RAF who was visiting Lossiemouth. You get to know their story and all that kind of stuff.”

Dee also lives in Inverness during the week, commuting to Dundee at the weekend. She says, ‘It is an easier commute than driving between here and Manchester and my son is now at University in Dundee.”

However, she admits the last 16 months have been “relentless”. She explains, “No one really realised how busy the hotel was going to be and recruitment has been a challenge. Although I am lucky in that we have a pool of people across the group that can be pulled in if really required. Everyone talks about Covid but for me Brexit was bigger. Housekeeping staff and chefs just aren’t available anymore,

SIMPLY THE BEST

in fact we outsource our housekeeping. We employ 50 staff here, and last year we had one person on sponsorship. We looked to do it again this year, but the cap has gone up by so much it’s just not feasible anymore. Despite the fact that we are working at persuading people that hospitality is a skilled job and a good career, people still think of it as a short gap option. We still have a long way to go despite the fact that we have addressed issues like pay and work/life balance.”

I asked why she thought business had been so good in Inverness.

“The NC500 has obviously played its part in putting a spotlight on the route, plus Outlander and Traitors of course – and I think that perhaps Edinburgh has got so expensive that people do it for the day and then come further on up. Although we are not inexpensive there is more to cover here than just one city. We also get film crews coming plus tour groups and buses. Once you pass Inverness there are not many big places – so they stop here and then do Skye and other areas for the day.”

She continues, “Obviously Americans are a large part of our business and golf too – it has really taken off over the last 12 months. Scottish Golf Tourism Week was held in Inverness. It was the first time since it launched ten years ago that it has been out of St Andrews. Again, I think cost plays a factor in people’s decision to come to Inverness.

instead including courses like Castle Stuart and Dornoch.”

She believes that guests like the fact that they know the quality and standards of the brand, but she also enjoys the fact that as an operator they do get some autonomy. She says, “AC Marriott was a new brand for Scotland, and Hotel Co 51 were the first to bring it here, although there is now one in Glasgow too. People don’t necessarily know what an AC is. The design is very fresh, and there are lots of Spanish influences thanks to Antonio Catalan who created the first AC Hotel in his home region of Navarra in Spain. People don’t expect that when they walk into a hotel in Inverness. On an evening, we put out fresh lavender and our guests do feel that it is a very personal touch.

“This summer we are going to have ‘Tapas on the Terrace’. We started out with the idea of ‘Tomatin on the Terrace’, because we have a great relationship with them as a local distillery. However, we have taken what was an F&B discussion and decided to rebrand our adjoining lodge as the Tomatin Lodge – it has 24 bedrooms and sits alongside the hotel. We will use the Tomatin tartan in the décor and offer Tomatin welcome packs in the rooms.

“Despite the fact we are an international brand we don’t have to be prescriptive and we can buy local too. We have a Scottish a la carte menu with a Spanish twist and we use local suppliers such as the Great Glen Charcuterie, Loch Ness Honey Co. and our coffee is from Inverness Coffee Roasting Co. – guests can go around the corner and buy the coffee directly from the shop if they like it.”

Talking of coffee, one of the things that set AC Marriott apart is the fact that they don’t have a desk in the bedrooms, instead they encourage guests to work in their communal bar area. Says Dee, “We have our coffee machine on all day, and we hope once the working day is ended they stay for a drink in the bar.”

She continues, “Although business has been phenomenal since we opened and the hotel has been very well received, we still have a lot to do. There’s still a lot of people locally who say they have not been in it and we are still trying to break the barriers that hotel restaurants appear to have – people not staying in the hotel are nervous about coming into the hotel for food. But when you consider that although there are so many places to eat in Inverness in reality there are very few seats because most of the restaurants are quite small. We have a bigger restaurant but it is often under utilised so we are aiming to break down the barriers with our food offering, and the terrace massively helps. People want to come and use the terrace with the views to the River Ness. They open the hotel doors and say ‘can we come in? And once they are in they realise what we have to offer.”

One of the best moments of her career was the official opening of the hotel last year in April. Dee smiles, “The Red Hot Chilli Pipers played at our official launch. They were amazing. People are still talking about it. It was a real pinch me moment. One minute I was shooing a duck out of reception and the next I was singling along to the Red Hot Chilli Pipers... you definitely don’t get that in a retail

Dee also admits that if I asked Bill or Marcello about her that they would say she never wanted to be a GM. She says “At any job review they would ask the question where do you want to be in five years and I would always say, I just want to be good at what I do. I just enjoyed what I did and naturally moved up. But it is hard to inspire people when you say that. People always want you to have ambition and to be aiming for something else, but for me I just naturally fell into hospitality and was able to move up the ladder because I enjoyed it so much.”

She does and that just shines through.

BRIG O’DOON HOUSE HOTEL

by Penny Devlin

The Brig o’ Doon House Hotel reopened in May after months of renovation. The hotel, which was bought by the RAD Group last year, now has upgraded Executive Bedrooms, a new-look Honeymoon Suite and there is a new extension to its Garden Lounge and Bar.

The work on the hotel has been carried out by a raft of specialised suppliers. They include Contractors Moogal, Wholesale Domestic Bathrooms, Porcelanosa, Brodie Lighting , Blairs Aluminium Systems and Marlborough Granite. Situated in the historical village of Alloway, and dating back to 1829, the Brig o’ Doon House Hotel was brought to fame by the works of Robert Burns in his poem ‘Tam o’ Shanter’ with references to the nearby Brig o’ Doon bridge. Although still having a traditional and historical look on the outside, the hotel

and rooms have been brought up to the highest standards for today’s guests.

Owner of the RAD Hotel Group, Vivien Kyle commenting on the renovations said, “We are extremely excited to reveal the renovations of Brig o’ Doon House Hotel to the public after months of hard work. I would like to extend a personal thank you to everyone who was a part of making these renovations possible. This particular project has been close to our hearts due to Brig o’Doon’s importance in our home of Ayrshire.”

The newly renovated spaces around Brig o’ Doon House Hotel, inspired by its historical setting, make the most of its breathtaking views which can be seen from each window. Every area around the hotel has been carefully considered to enhance the beauty of the venue without detracting from its past.

The extension of the Garden Room

Pollok Williamson has a reputation as one of the finest quality butchers in the Ayrshire area. Stewart and May Duguid took over the Pollok Williamson butchers business in 1978. Since then the business has expanded into a number of retail outlets and has become a well known name with shops in Ayr High Street, Mount Oliphant Crescent and Kilmarnock.

Our personal service means that we know the preferences of many of our individual customers, allowing us to prepare the meat just the way you like it. We also pride ourselves on our own recipe manufactured products all made to very high standard.

FREE DELIVERY ACROSS AYRSHIRE WITHIN 48 HOURS

Kilmarnock Foregate KA1 1LU | 01563 522086 Ayr 27 Mount Oliphant Crescent KA7 3EN | 01292 611558 23 High Street Ayr KA7 1LU | 01292 611528

includes a raised terrace which overlooks the River Doon. The extension certainly brings the outside in and that feeling is enhanced by the green of the upholstery and the soft furnishings.

The extended wedding exclusive Garden Lounge Bar reveals sweeping views and at the same time allows for a larger exclusive social area.

When you are in the new extension you almost feel that you are floating above the gardens of the hotel such is the vast expanse of glass. It certainly makes the most of the light and the setting.

Gordon McIntyre of Blair Aluminium Systems said, “This is another great project by Robert, Vivien and their team. Blairs Aluminium Systems is proud to be their supplier and installer of glass facades.”

As well as the new Lounge the Executive bedrooms have been re-designed. The décor

commitment to excellence and our ability to tailor our offerings to meet the unique aesthetic and functional needs of all our clients.”

The hotel also now has a luxurious Honeymoon Suite. The spacious and elegant space boasts a contemporary four-poster bed in the dressing room and a fabulous tiled bathroom which has a freestanding flute stone bath.

Said a Porcelanosa UK spokesperson, “We are proud suppliers to the RAD Hotel Group and were privileged to be involved in the Brig O’ Doon Project, We were delighted to supply products from across our vast range to complement the classic and elegant design in a Hotel with such great history. We would like to wish continued success to Robert, Vivien and all of the team at the RAD Hotel Group.”

The luxury feel extends to the linen and towels in the rooms all of which have been supplied by Shortridge who have supplied all the bed linen, towels and table linen to Brig o’

Doon since 2016, and who have continued the association with the RAD group.

“Our long-lasting relationship with Shortridge is owed to their understanding of the hospitality industry’s demands, delivering excellence every time. The linens provided have consistently met our high standards for luxury and comfort, in turn enhancing our guests’ experience. We look forward to continuing our collaboration for years to come,” said David Meikle, of the RAD Group.

The refurbishment of the hotel continues but it’s not just the décor that has been a focus the hotel chefs have been busy revamping their menus too to showcase Scottish cuisine, featuring the best local produce.

IThe RAD Group are certainly ensuring that the hotel will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Rabbie would be pleased.

THE RUTLAND HOTEL

JOHN VALLANCE

The Seafood Experts Proud to supply The Rutland Hotel. We wish them continued success.

John Vallance, The Seafood Experts, Units D11-14, Glasgow Fish Market, 130 Blochairn Road, Glasgow, G21 2DU Telephone: 0141 552 2825 info@johnvallance.com

Following an extensive £1.2M refurbishment, The Rutland has unveiled its new interiors offering for guests.

This Scottish boutique hotel, owned by the Signature Group, which also includes eateries The Huxley and Kyloe, has just been relaunched marking a pivotal moment in the regeneration of the area.

Originally built in the early 1800s, the revitalised aesthetics continue to pay homage to the building’s homeland. Each of the hotel’s nine renovated rooms are adorned with artwork inspired by some of Scotland’s most iconic brands, design flourishes including Mulberry wallpaper and a bath butler package featuring indulgent products from Arran Aromatics. The final touch–a fully stocked bar cart that showcases the country’s rich drinks heritage, from Edinburgh’s own Cold Town Beer and Edinburgh Gin to drams of Johnnie Walker.

Housed under the same roof, The Huxley and Kyloe have also undergone recent renovations by Birmingham based interior design company, Tibbatts Abel.

LCT supplied the artwork and accessories. Said a spokesman for LCT, “ We have worked with The Signature group and Tibbatts Design for many years, and they have always kept us on our toes! It is a pleasure to work with such creative companies who are always pushing the boundaries. Tibbatts Design brief us on the concept and we work closely with them to come up with the final artwork, accessories and planting scheme. All of the images in the Huxley were themed around Scotland and Edinburgh, we also created some bespoke ‘Bauhaus” style pieces, which worked so well with the scheme.

“In Kyloe we made a bespoke feature installation using verdigris copper pipes, the inspiration for this was ‘Cow Bells”! And we love the final result! “

Guests at The Rutland can sample the refreshed Huxley menu

EDINBURGH

that celebrates Scottish classics with a touch of American soul, in revamped surroundings that seamlessly blend Retro Americana with Art Deco.

Upstairs in Kyloe, the popular gourmet menu remains unchanged, whilst reimagined interiors provide a more opulent dining experience.

Louise MacLean, Business Development Manager for Signature Pubs, said, “Each detail throughout this refurbishment has been meticulously curated to ensure an unparalleled guest experience whether dining, drinking or dreaming. We want our guests to feel relaxed, at home, and to experience affordable Scottish luxury at every touch point. Whether that be through our expertly curated cocktail menus,

gourmet dining, amenities from brands such as GHD and Nespresso, or our ‘bath butler’ package where you can have your bath run for you whilst you relax or dine, using Arran Aromatic products.

“Whilst these three venues stand alone in their offerings, character and design, they are united in their shared vision to deliver unforgettable experiences with top level Scottish hospitality in an iconic Edinburgh location providing a well-placed offer ideal for international tourists, corporate visitors and locals alike .”

Guests of The Rutland Hotel & Apartments, will also have soon have access to a state of the art gym. This will launch later this year. ”

GODS

BY SUSAN YOUNG

The much-anticipated House of Gods Glasgow opened recently and already it is proving a hit with guests.

The new hotel took three years to complete following an extensive renovation. The result is a stunning property thatis certainly one of Scotland’s most flamboyant and decadent hotels.

Occupying the corner of Glassford and Wilson Streets, the hotel offers the brand’s signature extravagance which includes four poster beds and golden bathtubs, as well as two spectacular (Rock Star) Presidential Suites located on the hotel’s top floor. It’s here that guests will be able to ‘party like they’re famous’, thanks to amenities including private cinemas, expansive ensuites kitted out with spectacular twin baths and sprawling his and hers shower room, as well as the option to enjoy the whole floor if desired.

Much like its Edinburgh counterpart, exquisite interiors are at the heart of the House of Gods experience. From hand-painted 24 carat-gold embellished de Gournay wallpaper in the lobby bar, to the marble fountain crowning the rooftop bar, the

attention to detail is impressive.

Each guestroom benefits from luxe interiors which include custom cashmere blankets, bespoke cabinetry, and marble-clad bathrooms. Kitted out with curated minibars and boasting signature touches including the ‘naughty light’, the spaces have been designed to impress.

Heading to the top floor, guests will find the new rooftop ‘Garden of Eden’ inspired restaurant and bar. It has views which stretch across the city skyline.

Speaking about the hotel, CEO Mike Baxter said, “We couldn’t be more excited about opening our Glasgow location. It’s a place where everyone knows how to have a great time – and we’re here to treat each and every guest like the rockstar they are.

“Creating the ultimate escape here has been our main priority. In addition to offering services like early check-in and late check-out as standard, we have worked alongside incredible artists and craftspeople to create a destination which celebrates true extravagance. From working alongside Siobhan Mackenzie who has designed our team’s uniforms to creating a custom toile de jouy wallpaper designed by Gregory Lewis, who has previously worked with a multitude of key fashion brands including Chanel, Fendi, and Christian Louboutin to name just a few.”

Nic Oldham takes over the helm at Trump Turnberry

Trump Turnberry announced the appointment of Nic Oldham to the role of General Manager, last month, ushering in a new era for the resort.

Mark Hawthorn, COO of Trump Hotels said, “We are delighted to announce that Nic Oldham has been appointed the new General Manager of Trump Turnberry. In Nic’s most recent role as Turnberry’s Director of Sales and Marketing, his innovative strategies and sales leadership has well-positioned the property for future success. Prior to joining Trump Hotels, Nic had an extensive operations background, serving as General Manager and Regional Managing Director at various luxury hotel brands in the UK.

“We are confident that under Nic’s leadership, Trump Turnberry will continue to thrive and achieve new heights of success.”

Nic Oldham comments, “My immediate focus will be on preserving the resort’s heritage legacy and safeguarding the essence of the brand, while propelling it towards a future which embraces innovations in luxury and hospitality to build on the already exceptional experiences we offer.”

“There is a clear opportunity to elevate Trump Turnberry’s position within the Scottish and UK market as a must visit luxury destination, while continuing to attract the international market and put Scotland on the map as one of the top global destinations to visit.”

Community engagement will continue to be a focus for the resort. Nic commented, “We take immense pride in our role within the community and our charitable work; this year we raised a record-breaking £101,586 for our partner charities and will look forward to continuing to build meaningful connections, not only within our walls but also within Ayrshire and across Scotland.”

Expressing his deep-rooted connection with Trump Turnberry, Nic said, “This appointment is not merely a role; it signifies a return to the place that shaped my earliest golf memories, with my grandfather being member of Turnberry Golf Course and my father naming it his favourite course.”

He has taken over the role from Ralph Porciani who joined Turnberry as Executive Chef in 2004 and who became GM ten years later.

Trump Turnberry has also promoted Scott Anderson (pictured left) to the role of Hotel Manager and Evan Butler has been appointed as Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, overseeing the sales and marketing efforts for both Trump Turnberry and Trump Doonbeg.

Since joining the team in October 2005, Scott has moved up through the ranks from Head Waiter to Director of Food & Beverage and later to Director of Operations. In his new position, Scott will assume responsibility for the overall running of the hotel and spa.

Evan’s transitions into this new role from his position as Director of Sales and Marketing at Trump Doonbeg. Evan’s expertise will be key to creating synergies between the two properties and he will continue to be based primarily in Ireland.

GILLIAN MYLES NEW GM AT THE RESIDENT

Gillian Myles has been appointed as General Manager at The Resident Edinburgh, overseeing the hotel’s opening in the Scottish capital.

The 164-room property was subject to redevelopment of a 1960’s eyesore into an exemplar sustainable new purpose for the building as a hotel.

Resident Hotels will operate the Upper Upscale hotel, developed with Mactaggart Family & Partners, becoming the sixth ‘’The Resident’’ branded hotel within the group’s portfolio.

Gillian’s experience spans leading hotel groups in the UK, including Malmaison, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and InterContinental, with a focus on Edinburgh.

David JM Orr, CEO, Resident Hotels, said:, “We are privileged to have appointed someone of Gillian’s calibre, who brings with her great talent, a track record of developing her teams setting them up to succeed, all with a calm professionalism that will quickly establish The Resident Edinburgh as one of the

most sought-after, well-regarded hotels in the city.”

Gillian added: “The Resident brand has a very good reputation on Tripadvisorand in the wider industry - because of its team. My first CEO said to me, ‘people work for people’ and I truly believe that, as long as we make our team happy, the guests will follow.’’

“The Resident Edinburgh will be a strong addition to Edinburgh’s close-knit hotel community and has been designed with a real focus on guest experience. There are a lot of thoughtful touches, such as somewhere to hang your umbrella on one of Scotland’s rainy days, as well as a spectacular view of the city skyline when it clears.’’

“I am particularly proud to be working in a hotel with such a dedicated sustainability policy, from the development up. The sector needs to focus more on the issue and it’s something more and more visitors are looking for when they’re visiting hotels.”

NIC OLDHAM

SCOTT ANDERSON

PETER WALKER MOVES TO FONAB CASTLE

Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa has appointed Peter Walker as General Manager to drive forward Fonab Castle as one of Scotland’s most loved five-star hotels.

With twenty-five years’ experience in the industry at some of the northeast of Scotland’s most recognised hotels in the business, he is also a Master Innholder, a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and a Hospitality Action Ambassador.

Prior to joining Fonab Castle, Peter was Managing Director of Maryculter House in Aberdeen for more than five years.

Peter Walker, General Manager, said, “Fonab Castle is a truly unique hotel with an impressive five-star offering. I am incredibly honoured to step into the role of General Manager and I’m looking forward to working with the team who make this hotel so exceptional.”

Chris Wayne-Wills, CEO of Crerar Hotels who manage Fonab Castle, said, “I have long admired Peter’s extensive experience and skills as a hotelier, and I am thrilled that he has taken on this exciting role to lead our commitment to investment at Fonab Castle.

“Fonab Castle is one of Pitlochry’s most beloved five-star hotels and with Peter leading the team, it has huge ambitions to elevate itself even further, which is incredibly exciting.”

Destination Management Experts set up new DMC

The UK’s destination management industry just acquired a new key player –Limitless DMC which has been in launched in Edinburgh by Angela Inglis, previously a director 2B DMC UK Limited Scotland, Geoff Crow, Managing Director of 21CC Group Limited, and Pamela Badham, Founder of Four Marketing Agency.

Operating on the principle of ‘A World Without Limits’, the trio will draw on over 60 years of combined experience to deliver exceptional itineraries for high-end clients globally. Concentrating on Incentives, Groups, Conferences and Bespoke Luxury, each Limitless event and experience will be sustainably sourced and designed.

The trio plan to share their inside knowledge of secret destinations, from Scotland’s most spectacular

hidden gems to the quiet luxury or magnetic vibe of London.

Angela Inglis, Director of Limitless DMC added, “We’re drawing on years of experience and knowledge to take clients on a journey of discovery and unveil the best that Scotland and London have to offer. We’ll showcase our destinations to their greatest potential, curating a bespoke, tailor-made, transformative experience perfectly suited to each client’s brief – however challenging that may be.

“The benchmark for these types of trips gets ever higher as the world becomes more accessible, with clients seeking to make meaningful connections and create lasting memories. We will strive to include unique or new elements in every programme, always looking for ways to elevate experience beyond expectation.”

Marlborough Granite Ltd

Marlborough Granite is one of the most recognisable names in the Marble and Granite industry and over the past twenty years we have endeavoured to provide our clients with a service and commitment which we believe is the cornerstone of our success.

The latest CNC and Water Jet technology, combined with traditional, hand masonry skills ensure a perfect finish on all our products. Our materials are sourced worlwide through a network of trusted distributors and slab processors. We currently import quartz from Spain, Israel, Italy and the U.S.. Marble from Spain and Italy and our Granites are sourced as far afield as Brazil, India and South Africa.

30 Wellbeck Road

Darnley Industrial Estate, Glasgow G53 7SD Tel: 0141 881 8200

Email: sales@marlboroughgranite.com www.marlboroughgranite.com